Overview
The Rubicon Trail follows the Rubicon River from Loon Lake through a glacially carved granite canyon in the Crystal Basin area of the Eldorado National Forest, connecting eventually to Rockbound Pass and the Desolation Wilderness. The 10.4-mile out-and-back is the most popular river-corridor hike in the forest, combining granite scenery, swimming access, and wilderness connections in a single route accessible from the Crystal Basin campgrounds.
Located in California's El Dorado County, the trail follows one of the Sierra Nevada's classic river corridors. The Rubicon drains the high country below Rockbound Valley and the Desolation Wilderness, running clear and cold even at midsummer. The granite canyon walls, smoothed by glacial action, create a distinctly Sierra environment.
The Route
Loon Lake Trailhead to Lower River (0 to 2.0 miles)
The trail begins at Loon Lake and descends gradually toward the Rubicon River. The first section provides views of Loon Lake and the surrounding granite peaks before dropping to the river corridor. The river is accessible from multiple points along the trail.
River Corridor (2.0 to 4.5 miles)
The trail follows the Rubicon River through the canyon's most scenic section. Swimming holes appear at several points in this stretch, and the granite canyon walls provide the defining visual character. The trail crosses the river on a bridge and continues along the opposite bank in sections.
Upper Canyon Approach (4.5 to 5.2 miles)
The trail climbs more steeply toward the Rockbound Pass junction. The day-hike turnaround is at the pass junction (mile 5.2), where the route enters the Desolation Wilderness. Those without a Desolation Wilderness permit turn around here. Return via the same route.
When to Hike
June through October is the accessible season. The lower river trail opens when the Loon Lake road opens, typically in late May or June. Fall brings cooler temperatures ideal for the river corridor hiking.
July and August are peak season for swimming. The pools are busiest on summer weekends.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this route, supplemented by filtered river water. Sun protection matters on the open granite sections. Swimwear adds value in summer. A Desolation Wilderness permit is required to continue past the pass junction into the wilderness (as of 2026): check current requirements at Recreation.gov.
Trailhead Access
Loon Lake Trailhead is on Ice House Road in the Crystal Basin Recreation Area, reached from US-50 via Ice House Road. The road is paved. No fee or permit for the trail itself (as of 2026). Flush restrooms at the trailhead. Parking for 30 to 40 vehicles.
Dogs are permitted.
Nearby
Rubicon Trail is in the Crystal Basin alongside Grouse Lake Trail and Wentworth Springs Trail. Lovers Leap Trail is to the west near Strawberry for the American River canyon perspective. Check conditions and Desolation Wilderness permit requirements using the USFS guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles at the popular swimming holes.